Obituary of Shirley Ruth Eileen Harrison

February 15, 1928 – March 7, 2021

 

Born in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Shirley was the first of three children born to Ralph and Violet Paris. Shirley was an energetic and enthusiastic person who loved to take up new challenges.  She and her husband Bill lived on a hundred-acre farm near Queensville, Ontario and raised milking goats, pigs, chickens, a horse, and many dogs over the years. In 1966 Shirley became the first female realtor in the area and truly loved her work. She was founder and first President of the Sovereign Rottweiler Club of Ontario, and in 1981 officially registered the Club with the CKC as a Code of Ethics Club for Rottweiler Owners to protect the breed against indiscriminate and unlawful breeding practices. Shirley loved golfing, curling, gardening, cooking, bowling, singing, art, and of course her beloved pets. She was a talented and prolific painter, and many of her friends and family have her paintings proudly displayed in their homes. Shirley’s life was not without adversity. In 1989, she lost her only daughter Brenda and her husband Bill within 3 months of each other. Shirley knew she had two choices following the death of her family; she could allow herself to fall apart, or she could get back up and rebuild her life. These are Shirley’s own words: “Sadly, I was a widow after 37 years of happiness with Bill, so I completed a lifetime dream. As a child, I read over and over again “Heidi” about a little girl living with her grandfather in a small cabin high in the mountains tending a herd of sheep in the mountain meadows. My dream became a reality in 1997, crossing Canada to Beautiful Kimberley!” Shirley loved being part of her new community and made many friends who she treasured very dearly. We will miss Shirley very much, and we are grateful for the many years and memories she shared with us.

 

Shirley is survived by her brother Gerald Paris (Barbara), seven nieces and nephews, and many great (and great-great) nieces and nephews. 

 

Shirley was predeceased by her husband Bill and daughter Brenda, her parents Ralph and Violet, and her sister Janet.

 

We would like to express our sincerest gratitude to Dr. Nash, and to the wonderful staff at the Kimberley Special Care Home the “Pines.” We always knew Shirley was in good hands over the years. Also, to the many KSCH volunteers who take time out of their busy schedules to bring joy and entertainment to the residents, you absolutely brighten everyone’s day – THANK YOU!

 

Special thanks to Sherry Shrieves-Adams, Tanya Slavinsky, and Ellen and Gary Gilmore for your unwavering devotion and loving support over the years. Shirley thought the world of you, and so do we.

 

Memorial donations may be made to the KSCH Recreation Department in support of the wonderful programs they provide for the residents.  

 

A Celebration of Life will be held by Shirley’s family when we are able to safely gather again.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com